The Ada is a symbol of authority usually borne in the presence of the Ọba by a designated holder, the Omada, which translates as ‘Ada bearer’. The Ọba has almost exclusive rights to the use of the Ada, except when he permits a chief to possess one. Therefore the Ada is greater than the 

The Ada is one of the two most common types of ceremonial swords found in the Kingdom of Benin. The shape of the blade is a main distinguishing characteristic of these ceremonial swords. Ada typically have a J-shaped blade, whereas Ebẹn have a blade similar in shape to an oar and which is sometimes perforated and/or decorated with brass inlays, most commonly in the shape of small Ebẹn and leopards. The blades of both Ada and Ebẹn are made from iron – however, the Ada often has a carved ivory or cast-brass-hafted handle. In contrast, the handle of the Ebẹn is unique in shape, with a large ring-shaped handle set at a ninety-degree angle from the flat blade. The distinctive shapes of these swords make them relatively easy to identify. However, a wider range of material, including other kinds of swords, knives and daggers, are less easily identifiable with specific terms.

Two of the most common types of ceremonial swords found in the Kingdom of Benin are the Ada and the Ẹbẹn. The shape of the blade is a main distinguishing characteristic of these two ceremonial swords: Ada typically have a J-shaped blade, whereas Ẹbẹn have an oar-shaped blade which is sometimes perforated and/or decorated with brass inlays often in the shape of small Ẹbẹn and leopards. The blades of both Ada and Ẹbẹn are made from iron, however the Ada often has a carved ivory or cast-brass-hafted handle. In contrast, the handle of the Ẹbẹn is unique in shape – a large ring set at a ninety-degree angle from the flat blade. The distinctive shapes of these swords make them relatively easy to identify. However, a wider range of materials, including other kinds of swords, knives and daggers, are less easily identifiable with specific terms.

Ceremonial Sword

Germany

Website

Weltkulturen Museum Frankfurt am Main

Internal Data (eng)

Internal Data (ger)

Wikidata Link

Oldman, William Ockelford 

Dealer

Collector

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British Colonial Military Campaign on Benin, February 1897

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